BEND, Oregon (October 10, 2019) — 30/30 for the Deschutes is calling on all those who support a healthy Deschutes River to take action today so that the river, its wildlife, and the river community can have a healthier tomorrow.
After decades of mismanagement and irresponsible stewardship, the Deschutes River and some of its tributaries are in danger of collapse. 30/30 for the Deschutes is urging people to submit comments to the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service so that the Deschutes River Basin Habitat Conservation Plan, which is in the process of being finalized, considers the needs of the ecosystem as they plan policies and regulations.
Presently, the inadequacy of river flows fail to meet the minimum habitat requirements for the most vulnerable species in the river, including Oregon spotted frogs, trout, steelhead, and salmon. Rivers and fish need water, and 30/30 for the Deschutes calls on river supporters to demand adequate streamflows so that these species are protected and the habitat degradation on the Deschutes does not worsen.
From now through November 18, 2019, which is when the public commenting period for the Deschutes River Basin HCP ends, 30/30 for the Deschutes is urging people to submit comments to the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service via their commenting postcards or an online form available at deschutes3030.org. The individuals at 30/30 for the Deschutes contend that if we do not demand change and this irresponsible water waste continues, we risk losing salmon, steelhead, Oregon spotted frogs, native redband trout, bull trout, and more. They also fear that rural farmers with junior water rights and their communities could risk collapse, that Central Oregon could face negative impacts to outdoor recreation and tourism, and that our community’s quality of life will be forever changed.
About 30/30 for the Deschutes:
30/30 for the Deschutes is a grassroots community-driven effort to get the word out about the public commenting period for the Deschutes River Basin Habitat Conservation Plan. For more information about 30/30 for the Deschutes, please visit their website and find them on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
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